Planning staff urges repeal of independent feasibility/economic-impact study requirement; board approves

Planning staff reviewed the origin and intent of a 2020 ordinance that required independent feasibility and economic-impact studies for certain large private development projects and city-owned parcels. Richard Brown told the board that the program’s scope and cost had grown beyond expectations, consultants were producing speculative results based on incomplete data at the entitlement stage, and the studies were causing delays in the entitlement process.

"The results that we're receiving because they're not exact, are speculative and not substantial to continue this program," Brown said. Staff reported two completed studies and two more near completion but recommended repeal to reduce applicant costs and streamline entitlements. Board members asked whether staff would lose information needed for planning; staff replied that in-house and consultant work continues but the independent-study requirement imposed an unnecessary burden. The motion to recommend repeal was approved 7–0.